A police pursuit in Hamilton this morning ended with four people in hospital after a fleeing driver crashed into two other cars at a major intersection.
Inspector Graham Pitkethley said police were making inquiries into the three-vehicle crash in Harrowfield at about 8.20am.
The incident began with officers responding to a “priority” emergency call that relayed concerns of erratic driving, he said.
“The vehicle was seen being driven dangerously near a shopping centre in Te Rapa [The Base] by police and signalled to stop.”
The vehicle did not stop and fled into a parking complex, with police deploying spikes as the vehicle exited the car park building.
“It continued to flee and was pursued by police,” said Pitkethley.
The fleeing vehicle crashed into two other vehicles at the intersection of Wairere Dr and River Rd.
“The offender attempted to flee the scene on foot and was located near the scene by a police dog and taken into custody.”
Four people were taken to hospital with minor to moderate injuries — three members of the public and the alleged offender.
A 31-year-old man has been charged with driving in a dangerous manner and is due to appear in Hamilton District Court tomorrow.
Further charges are being considered.
The intersection remained closed while a thorough investigation takes place, said Pitkethley.
“We ask motorists to avoid the area.”